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 Criticisms of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s administration have intensified, with rising concerns from various quarters that his tenure has not met the expectations of the electorate, as the gubernatorial election fast approaches. Many citizens claim that the hardships experienced by residents reflect ineffective governance, fueling a wave of dissatisfaction across the state.

In a statement released by political analyst and Publicity Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party ((PDP), Hon. Kennedy Ikantu Peretei, to newsmen on Thursday morning, he highlighted growing discontent among residents. Initially, the All Progressives Congress (APC) appeared confident of an easy victory for Aiyedatiwa, who assumed office less than a year ago. However, recent interactions on the campaign trail suggest a more complex reality, with citizens confronting the administration over unmet promises and economic hardships. 

Peretei argue that rising poverty levels and a lack of tangible economic reforms have weakened Aiyedatiwa’s appeal. “The comfort of the offices from where they made proclamations about being ‘Lucky’ contrasts starkly with the reality on the streets,” Peretei noted, alluding to the unmet basic needs of citizens, such as access to food and employment. He reported that from campaign events, residents have openly expressed frustration over the current administration’s inability to address their concerns. One of the administration’s most controversial promises—a minimum wage hike to N73,000—remains unimplemented. Reports indicate that technical discussions on the proposal stalled, leading some to question the feasibility of the promise. “When the minimum wage is implemented, they will need wheelbarrows to carry their salaries,” claimed a statement from the governor’s office, drawing criticism from citizens who felt mocked rather than reassured. 

Among the most contentious issues is the anticipated 100% hike in tuition fees at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, which officials have reportedly delayed to avoid election-related backlash. While the measure has not yet been approved, speculation about its potential impact has raised alarm among students and parents, who fear that the increase would lead to high dropout rates and place additional financial strain on families. Further fueling political tensions are statements from APC national chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, who referenced plans to implement a “template” for success in Ondo akin to that used in Edo State, though he also denied any intentions to rig the election. Ganduje’s alignment with Aiyedatiwa’s administration has come under scrutiny, particularly following reports that he secured a N31 billion contract for a Judiciary Complex in Akure. Peretei claims that Ganduje’s support may be more rooted in personal gains than in promoting effective governance. 

In a move aimed at planning rigging, Amotekun Corps Commandant Adetunji Adeleye was reportedly appointed to lead a 25-member security team for the APC campaign. However, the appointment has sparked debate, with opponents questioning the involvement of a security chief in campaign activities. A spokesperson for Aiyedatiwa’s campaign has denied the report, though critics argue the perceived contradiction weakens the administration’s credibility. With election day approaching, Governor Aiyedatiwa faces an uphill battle in regaining the trust of voters increasingly vocal about their dissatisfaction. The outcome of the November 16 election may hinge on whether the APC can effectively address concerns and reassure the public.

At a campaign rally held yesterday in Igbokoda, Ondo State, Agboola Alfred Ajayi, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) gubernatorial candidate for the upcoming November 16 election, announced his commitment to relocate the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (OSOPADEC) office from Akure back to Igbokoda. 

Addressing a large crowd of supporters, Ajayi emphasized that OSOPADEC’s operations should be situated within its mandate areas to enhance accessibility for the local communities it serves. “Locating the commission in Akure is an aberration. You can’t have a commission meant for Ilaje and Ese Odo people in Akure,” he stated. He argued that this relocation would enable better oversight and immediate response to local issues.

Ajayi also voiced concerns regarding the ongoing sea encroachment affecting the Ayetoro Community, which has suffered significant losses. He criticized the current administration, stating that it has failed to address this pressing issue. “I am ready to drive the sea back by about 3 kilometers and reclaim the land,” he declared, promising to revitalize the community.

Highlighting the struggles faced by residents of Ilaje and Ese Odo, Ajayi lamented the persistent poverty in the region despite the wealth of resources available. He assured the audience that, if elected, he would prioritize the judicious use of state funds for the benefit of the people, underpinned by his seven-point agenda aimed at transforming the socio-economic landscape of Ondo State.

The traditional ruler of Ajapa Kingdom His Royal Majesty Godwin Aboyewa, The Igbinbou of Ajapa Kingdom has pleaded with the PDP Gubernatorial Candidate, H E Agboola Alfred Ajayi to assist in the reclamation of Ayetoro Community in Ilaje LG from sea incursion that is threatening the continuous existence of the ancient town.

In a rear display of brotherly and community love , the Ajapa Kingdom traditional ruler who played host to the Agbofessy Campaign train in his palace yesterday at Ajapa community opined that if Ayetoro Community is not saved from total extinction , Ajapa Kingdom might be at risk of rapacious effect of its extinction 

The traditional ruler also used the occasion of the courtesy visit to his palace to remind the PDP candidate and his team on the need of having portable water and qualitative and affordable education in his community, His Majesty , Aboyewa who also pray for the PDP candidate success in the election however remind him to always give back to the community if he eventually becomes the Governor of Ondo State.

While responding , the PDP candidate, H E Agboola Alfred Ajayi who embarked on the campaign train to his home LG of Ese Odo LG, yesterday assured the king that the Ayetoro Community would be saved from extinction if he becomes Governor of Ondo State.

” I want to appreciate the brotherly love you have displayed here today that you want us to save Ayetoro Community from total extinction and this is high level of patriotism u have shown us today, I can assure you sir , if we get to office by next year February, we would chase the sea away from Ayetoro Community by at least 2 kilometers , it is not going to be by magic but is something we are prepared to do since the present APC administration in Ondo State seems to have run short of ideas of how they can save Ayetoro Community , we are prepared to give them back their city and even ready to creat more permanent towns in our riverine areas for our people” Ajayi promised

It was also a carnival like campaign at Bolowo and Arogbo communities as hundreds of jubilant supporters, party men and even school children came out to show solidarity and support for their own with a firm assurance that Ese Odo LG is for PDP in this coming election 

When the campaign train of the PDP Gubernatorial Candidate moved to Apoi all the traditional rulers in Apoi end, all the traditional rulers in the communities in Apoi land converged at the Kalasuwe palace where the paramount ruler of Apoi land , His Royal Majesty, Oba Sunday Amuseghan led other Kings to pray for the success of their son, Asiwaju Oluomo of Apoi land, H E Agboola Alfred Ajayi and his Deputy Governorship Candidate, Hon Festus Akingbaso stressing that they all wish a great success in this coming election.

” Ese Odo is for Agboola Ajayi, there is no two way to it , we are here to pray for him alongside our traditional rulers and I am very sure our people will give him maximum support in this coming election, if anybody is saying something else, they are just deceiving themselves , block vote is for Agbo and Fessy here ” one of the community leader opened up.

It was also a carnival like in igbekebo as thousands of residents , PDP members , supporters and well wishers came out to show support for their son .

While addressing the mammoth crowd that gathered and waited for him till we about 10pm in the evening, the Gubernatorial candidate assured his people that he would never disappoint them and that all development that is needed in Ese Odo LG would surely come to them without any stress.

 

The Attorney General of Ondo State, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, SAN OON, Discusses the Vision Behind the New Judiciary Complex and Responds to Public Debate

* “Investment in justice is an investment in democracy. Under Governor Aiyedatiwa, we are proactively securing the future of Ondo State.

* “New Judiciary Complex will significantly boost the economic growth of Ondo State and access to justice”

* “Ondo government is prioritising infrastructure for long-term welfare, and not quick fixes”

* “I don’t support cash handouts. The approach is a primitive and demeaning solution that simply won’t work. The government’s approach to strengthening the economy by actively making this huge investment in it is the most effective way to alleviate poverty.”

In this interview, Dr. Kayode Ajulo, OON, SAN, the Attorney General of Ondo State & Commissioner for Justice underscored that the award of the contract for the new Judiciary Complex and the VIP lodge is not only a strategic investment but also a timely and essential step forward for the growth and advancement of Ondo State and its people. He explained how this critical project aligns with the State’s broader goals while emphasising that it will enhance access to justice, stimulate the local economy, and solidify Ondo State’s commitment to progress and sustainable development.

Q. Honourable AG, thank you for your time. There has been significant public debate regarding the Ondo State government’s recent decision to award an N31 billion contract for a new High Court Complex and N1.2 billion for renovating the VIP lodge. Could you help clarify the rationale behind these decisions?

A. Thank you for having me. Let me begin by saying, *” True progress lies not in temporary relief, but in building a future where justice, opportunity, and growth are accessible to all.”*

The decisions taken by the Ondo State Executive Council are both legal and highly strategic. It is almost amusing that some of the same individuals calling for infrastructural upgrades are now criticizing this transformative decision. Infrastructure improvements must start somewhere, and it’s the responsibility of a visionary government to assess what is critically needed and ensure its accessibility to the public. 

Even before I was appointed the Chief Law Officer of the State, I was vocal about the difficulties our people face in accessing justice and the subpar conditions of the judicial system in Ondo State. This new High Court Complex is a practical, long-awaited solution that I believe is appreciated by well-meaning citizens who understand that a robust judicial infrastructure is essential for effective governance and the rule of law.

Take, for example, a 300% increment in the salaries and emoluments of judges and the recent judicial housing project in Abuja, as approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This demonstrates a national recognition of the importance of the judiciary. In my opinion, the N31 billion allocated for the new High Court Complex is modest, considering what such a project entails. When justice suffers, democracy falters. Though I would prefer not to discuss this during an election season, political opponents often try to distort reality for personal gain. They understand the necessity of this project but won’t admit it because of the timing.

Q. Some critics argue that these expenditures come at a time of economic hardship. How do you justify such significant investments?

A. Well, it’s typical for those seeking quick political points to twist matters. Recently, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa announced an immediate implementation of a Minimum Wage that surpassed what the law provides for Ondo State workers- a move that was widely applauded. In the past ten months, the Governor has been implementing several poverty alleviation and palliative initiatives, giving out food, fertilizers, etc. Would a Governor who doesn’t prioritize the welfare of his people make such a decision and take such initiatives?

It’s also important to note that these projects have been pending for some time. The need for a new judicial complex was first identified during the administration of the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. The government then even had to pull down some substandard courtrooms and buildings in the specific sites to make room for this new complex, but unfortunately, progress stalled due to the former governor’s health challenges and subsequent passing. 

While economic realities are harsh, it would be negligent and a disservice to our citizens to use them as an excuse not to provide essential services. While the amount may seem large on paper, in today’s economy, it barely covers what was initially proposed. Delays would only hinder justice in Ondo State, where the current court facilities are outdated and inadequate.

Q. Can you elaborate on how a new High Court Complex will benefit the judicial system in Ondo State?

A. Certainly. This new complex is a vital step toward a more efficient and accessible judiciary. It will incorporate modern technology, streamlining legal processes and providing a more comfortable and functional workspace. Currently, judicial staff work in cramped spaces that stifle productivity and morale. 

The new facility will also improve the ease of accessing records and documents. It will reduce time wasted in searching through piles of files in overcrowded offices. This alone will greatly enhance legal research for both lawyers and judicial staff. By investing in the judiciary, we strengthen the rule of law and ensure it meets the increasing demands of our citizens.

Q. Beyond the judicial aspect, how do these projects contribute to the local economy?

A. These construction and renovation projects represent a considerable investment in our local economy. Awarding contracts to reputable firms supports job creation and benefits local businesses, especially critical during these challenging economic times. This isn’t just a big project; it’s a comprehensive economic stimulus for Ondo State, impacting everyone from labourers and site officers to vendors, transportation providers, and small business owners.

It’s important to highlight that, since Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa assumed office nearly ten months ago, every action taken has been with a focus on alleviating hardship and reducing poverty across the state. From the distribution of palliatives to various poverty relief initiatives, the government has consistently prioritized the welfare of its people. We still recall the scenes of citizens receiving essential food items from government warehouses to address immediate needs during challenging times. 

Beyond immediate relief, initiatives like these infrastructure projects are key to revitalizing the local economy. Awarding contracts of this magnitude is not only a strategic but crucial approach to ensure that all sectors benefit. From the legal professionals drafting contracts to suppliers providing office equipment, this creates a ripple effect, generating income and stimulating economic activity across multiple industries. As a legal professional, while I’m not directly involved in contracting, I can assure you that the positive impact of such projects extends broadly, touching the lives of countless residents.

So, to effectively combat poverty, funds must circulate within the public to create a lasting impact. I as a person do not support the idea of people lining up to receive cash handouts, which only provide short-term relief- this is what some people love to do but have you seen it worked? No!. Do these critics expect the funds to sit idle, or determine their own purpose? If they truly care about the welfare of the people, they should see that these funds need to be invested purposefully as the government has done, through due process, to drive real economic benefit. That, in my view, is exactly what the government is doing- and it’s the most responsible choice.

Q. The renovation of the VIP lodge has also been a point of contention. What’s the significance of this project?

A. It’s easy to hear “government house” and imagine it’s a state-of-the-art facility. In reality, some structures are so old that they can no longer be “renovated” without extensive work. This VIP lodge renovation is not merely for aesthetics; it’s to ensure that Ondo State’s facilities meet the necessary standards for housing and hosting government officials, and dignitaries and supporting official functions. Improving these facilities makes Ondo State a more attractive destination for investment and partnerships, which ultimately benefits our people.

Q. Transparency and accountability are often concerns in governmental spending. How does the government ensure these principles in these projects?

A. Every project decision was made with the utmost care, and each one underwent thorough evaluation. The specifics are in the public domain, and all relevant sectors of government were involved to ensure rigorous scrutiny, from the procurements agency and State Tender Board to the Exco for final approval, all the necessary steps were taken, and don’t forget our Assembly passed the project into law as budget, Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s administration is firmly committed to transparency and accountability, ensuring that public funds are wisely and judiciously spent for the benefit of the people.

Q. Regarding good governance, what measures are in place to ensure these projects effectively serve the public interest?

A. Good governance is about engaging stakeholders and ensuring that decisions reflect community needs. We’ve implemented mechanisms for public consultation and feedback, so citizens can voice their concerns and suggestions. This participatory approach ensures that projects align with the people’s needs, fostering a sense of community ownership.

Q. How does the government plan to monitor the progress and quality of these projects?

A. We’ve established a dedicated oversight structures comprising representatives from various sectors. This committee will regularly assess construction progress, quality standards, and adherence to timelines. To maintain transparency, we’re committed to making these evaluations public.

Q. Justice is a cornerstone of governance. How will the new High Court Complex specifically improve access to justice for the citizens of Ondo State?

A. The new facility will significantly enhance access to justice. By increasing the number of courtrooms and providing more accessencourageonment, we can reduce case backlogs and ensure timely hearings. This, in turn, builds public trust in our legal system—a critical foundation for any democratic society.

Q. Many stakeholders have expressed concerns. How does the government plan to engage with them?

A. We respect these concerns and encourage constructive dialogue rather than dismissing valid feedback. The challenges we face require thoughtful, inclusive solutions, and we welcome discussions on how to balance the needs of our citizens with our infrastructure investments.

Q. To wrapup discussion on the project, how do you see these projects impacting the future of Ondo State?

A. Under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, we are proactively securing our State’s future. These infrastructure investments address immediate needs while also laying a solid foundation for progress and stability. Our unwavering commitment to the welfare of the people will continue to guide every effort as we work toward a prosperous Ondo State.

Q: So, with all this in mind, what is your stance on the upcoming election, and what are Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa’s chances?

A: I thought we have agreed to not discuss politics, we need not labour ourselves over sentiments here but let me share my perspective. But note that everything I am going to say is already in the public domain. Situation in Ondo State is a simple issue of res ipsa loquitor, the matter speaks for itself as the direction of this election is clear- it’s a walkover because there’s truly no contest. 

This election, to me, is more of a reaffirmation of the people’s trust in the incumbent administration. Even Governor Aiyedatiwa’s opponents recognize this. The Governor has consistently shown both vision and competence, establishing himself as a dependable leader for the people of Ondo State. Have you noticed the absence of any desperation or intimidation toward political alliances across the state?

During the opening of the new legal year, I mentioned that the Governor has instructed his team to ensure a level playing field for all participants in this election. Our priority is to safeguard the will of the people through transparent and responsible governance. Imagine a governor, in the middle of an election, prioritizing peace and stability when others in his position might turn their states upside down. It speaks volumes about his character and commitment.

I’d also like to take this opportunity to commend our security agencies- the police, civil defence, Amotekun, and others, for their dedication into maintaining peace and order throughout the State.

It’s crucial to highlight this because, unlike in the past when certain parties would flood the media with claims of suppression, this time, there’s none of that. Governor Aiyedatiwa’s peace-oriented approach is evident. The calm across the state is proof- no tensions, no disturbances, a stark contrast to what we used to experience.

This is a civil service-oriented-state. Go out and ask the workers about their salaries- what was once a delayed payment system has now transformed into consistent, timely payments, often made before the month’s end.

Governor Aiyedatiwa is steadfast in his commitment to governance, peace, unity, and the continuous development of Ondo State. The people see a trustworthy leader in him—tested, proven, and a true promise-keeper.

Q. Thank you for your insights, Sir. Your perspective on these important issues is greatly appreciated.

A. Thank you for having me. Open discussions like this are essential to our progress as a State.

AgboFessy Independent Media Group has raised alarm over the severe degradation of Ondo State’s healthcare system, urging citizens to support the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Agboola Alfred Ajayi, in the upcoming November 16 gubernatorial election. In a statement issued today in Akure, the group detailed the decline of the state’s once-renowned healthcare programs, including the Mother and Child Hospitals and the Abiye Safe Motherhood Initiative, both of which have become moribund since 2016.

According to health reports, maternal mortality in Ondo State has increased by 20%, while vaccination rates dropped from 60% to 42% between 2018 and 2022, data from the Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) confirm. AgboFessy Media pointed out that these alarming statistics highlight the neglect under previous administrations, particularly during the tenure of the late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, under whom the healthcare sector saw insufficient funding and critical programs left to decay.

The Mother and Child Hospitals, once a beacon of hope for free maternal care in Ondo State, now suffer from severe staff shortages and lack of equipment. Likewise, the Abiye Safe Motherhood Initiative, which had significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality rates, has been neglected. AgboFessy Media highlighted that these failures are a result of the state’s political leadership prioritizing other sectors over healthcare, contributing to a steep decline in healthcare access and quality.

The group strongly advocated for a change in leadership, expressing confidence that Agboola Alfred Ajayi, the PDP candidate, has the vision and commitment to restore the state’s healthcare system. As former Deputy Governor, Ajayi opposed the degradation of healthcare under the late Akeredolu, and his campaign promises a comprehensive overhaul, including the full revival of the Mother and Child Hospitals and the Abiye Initiative.

Ajayi’s proposed reforms include increasing healthcare funding, recruiting more medical professionals, and restoring key maternal health programs to ensure that the state’s mothers and children receive quality care. The group also noted his pledge to work with international organizations to bring in support for a sustainable universal health coverage program.

AgboFessy Independent Media Group calls on Ondo State citizens to consider the dire state of healthcare when voting in the upcoming election, emphasizing that only a candidate like Agboola Ajayi can deliver the urgent reforms needed to bring the state’s healthcare sector back from the brink.

 

Kunle ‘Wizeman’ Ajayi, the gubernatorial candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has called for the immediate release of Mr. Banji Orogbemi, a prominent member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), who was recently arrested for allegedly criticizing the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. In a fiery statement issued on Monday, Ajayi condemned Orogbemi’s detention, accusing the governor of using authoritarian tactics to silence opposition voices in Ondo State.

Ajayi, who is a known critic of the Aiyedatiwa administration, described Orogbemi’s arrest as unjust and a direct violation of the right to free speech. He warned that such actions are becoming a hallmark of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s regime, which he labeled tyrannical and dictatorial.

“For the umpteenth time, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is showing his tyrannical tendencies. The arrest and subsequent detention of Mr. Banji Orogbemi is an anomaly and he must be released immediately,” Ajayi’s statement read.

He further alleged that this was not the first time Governor Aiyedatiwa has resorted to heavy-handed tactics to suppress dissent. Ajayi recalled his own arrest, along with six others, during an August protest against bad governance in the state. He accused the governor of trying to intimidate citizens and political opponents through unlawful arrests, only to backtrack when faced with public outrage.

The AAC candidate also slammed Governor Aiyedatiwa for mismanaging public funds, citing a controversial ₦775 million expenditure on renovating the fence of the government house, while, according to Ajayi, over 26,000 children in the state remain out of school. Ajayi further claimed that after he exposed this, the governor sent thugs to harass him.

Ajayi did not stop at calling for Orogbemi’s release but also criticized the Ondo State police and judiciary for allegedly collaborating with the governor to repress political and social freedoms. “We condemn the police and judiciary for collaborating with the governor to rob people of their social and political rights,” Ajayi said.

The AAC, alongside the NNPP, has vowed to take both political and legal action against what they describe as a growing culture of repression under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership. Ajayi also urged the people of Ondo State to rally behind Orogbemi and demand his immediate release, stating, “Ondo State is a democratic state, and we can never allow some baby Hitlers to destroy this.”

The arrest of Orogbemi has sparked outrage among opposition groups and civil society in Ondo State, who see it as part of a broader pattern of government crackdown on dissent. Protests are expected to intensify in the coming days as political parties and activists continue to push for his release and challenge the governor’s actions.

The statement by Ajayi has further heightened tensions in the state, which is already politically charged in the run-up to the 2024 gubernatorial elections. 

Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has yet to respond to these latest allegations, but the political climate in Ondo State remains tense as opposition groups unite in their calls for justice and accountability.

 

Kunle ‘Wizeman’ Ajayi, the gubernatorial candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), has called for the immediate release of Mr. Banji Orogbemi, a prominent member of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), who was recently arrested for allegedly criticizing the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa. In a fiery statement issued on Monday, Ajayi condemned Orogbemi’s detention, accusing the governor of using authoritarian tactics to silence opposition voices in Ondo State.

Ajayi, who is a known critic of the Aiyedatiwa administration, described Orogbemi’s arrest as unjust and a direct violation of the right to free speech. He warned that such actions are becoming a hallmark of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s regime, which he labeled tyrannical and dictatorial.

“For the umpteenth time, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa is showing his tyrannical tendencies. The arrest and subsequent detention of Mr. Banji Orogbemi is an anomaly and he must be released immediately,” Ajayi’s statement read.

He further alleged that this was not the first time Governor Aiyedatiwa has resorted to heavy-handed tactics to suppress dissent. Ajayi recalled his own arrest, along with six others, during an August protest against bad governance in the state. He accused the governor of trying to intimidate citizens and political opponents through unlawful arrests, only to backtrack when faced with public outrage.

The AAC candidate also slammed Governor Aiyedatiwa for mismanaging public funds, citing a controversial ₦775 million expenditure on renovating the fence of the government house, while, according to Ajayi, over 26,000 children in the state remain out of school. Ajayi further claimed that after he exposed this, the governor sent thugs to harass him.

Ajayi did not stop at calling for Orogbemi’s release but also criticized the Ondo State police and judiciary for allegedly collaborating with the governor to repress political and social freedoms. “We condemn the police and judiciary for collaborating with the governor to rob people of their social and political rights,” Ajayi said.

The AAC, alongside the NNPP, has vowed to take both political and legal action against what they describe as a growing culture of repression under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership. Ajayi also urged the people of Ondo State to rally behind Orogbemi and demand his immediate release, stating, “Ondo State is a democratic state, and we can never allow some baby Hitlers to destroy this.”

The arrest of Orogbemi has sparked outrage among opposition groups and civil society in Ondo State, who see it as part of a broader pattern of government crackdown on dissent. Protests are expected to intensify in the coming days as political parties and activists continue to push for his release and challenge the governor’s actions.

The statement by Ajayi has further heightened tensions in the state, which is already politically charged in the run-up to the 2024 gubernatorial elections. 

Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration has yet to respond to these latest allegations, but the political climate in Ondo State remains tense as opposition groups unite in their calls for justice and accountability.

 

 Students of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA), are growing increasingly concerned over rumors of a looming increase in school fees, which, according to insider reports, is expected to be announced after the upcoming elections. The move is being linked to the will of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who many believe is intent on imposing heavy financial burdens on students and their families, potentially impoverishing a large portion of Ondo State’s population.

Sources within the university disclosed that the school management has been deliberating on the fee hike for months, but has chosen to delay any official announcement until after the political climate stabilizes. According to a lecturer who spoke on condition of anonymity, the reason for the unusually long break and the delay in upgrading the school portal to the next academic session is tied to the impending fee increment.

“It is true that the school fees will be increased, and that’s why the delay. The management doesn’t want to stir up protests before the elections. They will announce it right after,” the lecturer reportedly said. He further hinted that the school management, under pressure from the state government, is aware of the potential backlash a fee hike could create, especially in an election period.

The rumored fee increase is expected to raise fees to as high as ₦300,000 for most programs, while students in nursing and medical-related fields may face fees as high as ₦1.2 million per session. This substantial increase has fueled accusations that Governor Aiyedatiwa’s administration is deliberately implementing policies that will make education inaccessible for many.

One student, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed frustration: “We’ve been on break for too long, and our portal is still down. I decided to ask one of my lecturers, and he confirmed that the delay is because they want to increase the fees, but they’re holding off until after the elections. He even told us to start praying about it. This is clearly Governor Aiyedatiwa’s doing, and it’s like he wants to impoverish the people of Ondo State.”

The potential hike has already sparked reactions among the student community, with many fearing the increase will make education unaffordable, particularly in a time of economic hardship across the country. Critics have accused the governor of pushing policies that will further strain already struggling families, especially in a state with widespread poverty and limited economic opportunities.

If confirmed, this fee increase would represent one of the most significant hikes in the history of AAUA, leading to widespread anxiety among students and parents alike.

Calls for clarity and transparency have begun to grow louder, with students urging the AAUA management and Governor Aiyedatiwa to communicate openly about their plans and offer solutions to help cushion the effects of the proposed increase.

For now, the AAUA community waits with bated breath for an official statement from the university management, even as the shadow of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s controversial school fee policy looms large.

 Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State is facing strong opposition following his administration’s decision to allocate ₦30 billion for the construction of a single building for the Ministry of Justice. The move has sparked widespread condemnation from citizens and civil society groups, who argue that such a massive expenditure is an irresponsible use of public funds, given the pressing infrastructure challenges in the state.

In an open letter addressed to Governor Aiyedatiwa by Wande T  Ajayi, a renowned political analyst, he expressed his disappointment and frustration over what he sees as a misplaced priority. The letter emphasized that the people of Ondo State are grappling with critical issues such as deteriorating roads, inadequate healthcare, lack of access to clean water, and poor electricity supply in many rural communities.

The letter, which has gained significant attention, highlights the stark contrast between the proposed luxury building and the state’s dire need for basic infrastructure. It estimates that the ₦30 billion could be used to build or rehabilitate up to 300 kilometers of roads, construct 600 healthcare centers, or provide clean water and electricity to thousands of underserved communities.

“At a time when so many of our people are struggling with lack of basic amenities, it is unacceptable that the government would prioritize a single office building over the urgent needs of the public,” the letter stated.

Ajayi, who is the Team Lead of Council of Young Leaders in People’s Democratic Party (CYLi-PDP) urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to cancel the project and redirect the funds toward projects that would directly improve the lives of the people. They criticized the plan to spend such a colossal amount on a single structure, arguing that the justice system in Ondo State would be better served by investments in digital technology, improved court facilities, and better case management, rather than an extravagant building.

“We cannot afford this wasteful project when our roads are in a state of disrepair and healthcare services are lacking,” the letter added.

This controversy is seen as a critical test of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, especially as he steps into the spotlight following the death of his predecessor, Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu. Many are looking to him to make decisions that will positively impact the lives of Ondo State residents, and the handling of this ₦30 billion building project will likely shape public perception of his administration moving forward.

As public pressure mounts, it remains to be seen whether Governor Aiyedatiwa will heed the call for a more responsible use of public funds. The debate over the project is expected to intensify, with citizens demanding that their concerns be prioritized in future decision-making processes.

 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ondo State has once again called on the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Alhaji Mahmood Yakubu, to urgently replace the state’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs. Toyin Babalola. The PDP argues that her continued role in overseeing the upcoming gubernatorial election, slated for November 16, compromises the integrity of the process due to her alleged deep connections with the state and its political leaders.

In an open letter addressed to the INEC Chairman on October 18, 2024, and signed by PDP State Secretary, Oluseye Olujimi, the party raised concerns about Mrs. Babalola’s neutrality. They assert that she has longstanding ties to the state, including residing in Akure for over three decades, and has reportedly held secret meetings with the incumbent governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the upcoming election.

The PDP pointed out that their call for Mrs. Babalola’s removal is not new, having previously requested her replacement due to her alleged biases. This renewed plea follows recent comments by Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, who warned that the PDP would continue protesting until the INEC chief takes action.

“We have repeatedly expressed that Mrs. Babalola is unfit to supervise the November election. Her ties to the state, compounded by her close association with the ruling APC, have raised serious concerns about her ability to conduct a free and fair election,” the letter stated.

The party urged INEC to act swiftly, warning that failure to do so could spark unrest and cast further doubt on the commission’s impartiality. Citing the recent controversy surrounding the Edo State election, the PDP argued that the removal of Mrs. Babalola would be a crucial step in restoring confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

“The atmosphere in Ondo State is already tense, and INEC must demonstrate transparency and professionalism by appointing a non-partisan REC who has no personal ties to the state or its political actors,” the letter continued. “This is an opportunity for INEC to show Nigerians that it is serious about conducting credible elections.”

The PDP concluded by urging the INEC Chairman to take immediate action to prevent a potential crisis and safeguard Nigeria’s fragile democracy.

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